The Federal Government has raised serious allegations against certain electricity distribution companies (DisCos), accusing them of purposefully avoiding power supply from the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) and exacerbating the ongoing power crisis.
Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, expressed deep concern about the deteriorating power supply and disclosed the government’s intention to scrutinize underperforming power distribution companies. Adelabu convened a meeting with the Chief Executives of Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) and Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) to address the worsening power situation in their respective regions. The Managing Director of TCN, Sule Ahmed Abdulazeez, was also summoned to discuss the deteriorating power scenario.
The minister emphasized that non-performing DisCos would face inquiries for their lack of performance, with potential consequences including license revocation. In an official statement, Adelabu asserted, “These two DISCOs have been summoned due to the worsening power supply situation in their regions despite improved supply from TCN.”
Despite challenges such as gas shortages, the Ministry has reportedly urged Generating Companies (GENCOs) to enhance performance. Recent efforts have seen power generation ramped up to over 4000MW. Adelabu expressed anticipation for improved power supply nationwide, pointing out that certain distribution companies were deliberately neglecting power supply from TCN. Additionally, vandalism of power lines was reported in Abuja, Benin, Port Harcourt, and Ibadan regions.
Looking ahead, the Minister emphasized a focus on compelling all DISCOs to meet performance expectations. He warned that willful non-performance by any DISCO could result in severe punishment or even license revocation. Adelabu has also directed TCN to promptly initiate repair works on damaged transmission towers and power lines to enhance supply in affected regions.
